Newly minted Punta Gorda Mayor Rachel Keesling was all smiles after getting the nod of approval from her peers at Wednesday's City Council meeting. Keesling, who served as vice mayor, succeeds former mayor Bill Albers, who stepped down this year after seven years on the council.

SUN PHOTO BY BRENDA BARBOSAPunta Gorda City Councilwomen Carolyn Freeland and Nancy Prafke were sworn in Wednesday, each to a two-year term. Freeland ran unopposed this year for a second term in District 3. She was nomiated and elected by her peers to serve as vice mayor shortly after being sworn in. Prafke, a political newcomer, prevailed in Tuesday's election over Charlie Counsil for the District 5 seat.

By BRENDA BARBOSA

Staff Writer

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PUNTA GORDA — History was made in the city Wednesday as women took over leadership positions on the City Council that traditionally have been held by men.

Former vice mayor Rachel Keesling takes over as mayor for the remaining year of her second two-year term. Fellow Councilwoman Kim Devine nominated Keesling for the position at the council’s regular meeting, and the nomination was approved unanimously by the other council members.

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